Something about “make your own” is always more fun!  Whether it’s tacos or oatmeal, letting my kids be in charge of their own toppings, adds to their overall enjoyment of the meal.  We do have a couple of little rules though, like only sprinkling a little brown sugar and at least having a little sprinkle of nuts.

Other toppings we use include banana slices, cooked apples, coconut, a variety of nuts and lots of different dried and fresh fruits.  So fun!!!  Try it and your kids will love it!!!

We use good ol’ fashioned, whole grain oats.  They cook in just a few minutes.  Or you can buy steel cut oats and cook them in the crock pot overnight.  So delicious and breakfast is ready when you wake!

Ingredients:

Serves 5-6

• 3 cups whole grain oats (I use the quick oats)
• 5 cups water
• milk for serving

Recommended Toppings:

• brown sugar (just a little!)  🙂
• dried cranberries
• raisins
• dried apricots
• chopped almonds, walnuts or pecans

Directions:

• Bring water to a boil in a med. saucepan over med. high heat.
• Add oats and reduce heat to med.  Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes or until oats start to thicken.
• Serve with above toppings and milk, if desired.

For Overnight Slow Cooker Steel-Cut Oats:

• Add 2 cups steel-cut oats and 3/4 t. salt to 6 cups water in your slow cooker.
• Cook on low overnight or about 8 hours.
• Serve with above toppings!

Have a great day!  Happy Cooking!

~ Gena